Your Fireplace & Chimney, Explained
Most people only ever see the brick sticking out of the roof. But that’s just the tip of a pretty complicated system. Your fireplace and chimney are comprised of several parts that all work together to move smoke safely out, keep water out, and protect your home from fire and structural damage.
This guide breaks it down, piece by piece, so you can understand how it all works, what can go wrong, and when it’s time to call a professional.
Click on any part of the diagram below to learn what it does, what can go wrong, and how a certified chimney sweep keeps it working safely.
Why You Should Call a Chimney Professional
Your chimney works hard year after year, but it also takes a beating from heat, moisture, and time. A certified chimney sweep doesn’t just clean soot; they inspect, repair, and protect the system that keeps your fireplace in good working order.
Regular professional care can:
- Prevent chimney fires and leaks
- Extend the life of your fireplace
- Keep smoke, gases, and heat where they belong
- Save you money by catching problems early
Chimney Fire Hazards, What You Should Know.
When wood burns, the smoke carries tiny, unburned particles and oils. As it rises and cools inside your chimney, those particles stick to the walls, forming a black, tar-like coating called creosote.
At first, it’s just dirty. But left alone, it thickens into a hard, glassy glaze that’s highly flammable. A single spark or high heat event can set it off, and a chimney fire can spread through your house before you even realize what’s happening.
You can’t stop creosote completely, but you can keep it under control:
- Burn only dry seasoned wood
- Get your chimney inspected and cleaned every year
- Ask your sweep about products like Cre-Away or Anti-Creo-Soot to prevent buildup
A clean, well-maintained chimney burns hotter, drafts better and keeps your home safer.
Explore Chimney parts
CROWN
The chimney’s roof. If it cracks, water seeps in and starts causing bigger problems fast.
Flashing
The thin metal where the chimney meets the roof. When flashing rusts or loosens, leaks follow.
Exterior Brick & Mortar
The armor that shields your flue from weather. If you see white stains, flaking, or cracks, moisture is already getting in.
Flue
The exhaust path for smoke and gases. If it’s cracked or missing a liner, heat and carbon monoxide can leak into your home.
Smoke Chamber
The funnel that directs smoke into the flue. Rough or jagged brickwork allows creosote to build up faster.
Fireplace / Firebox
Where the fire lives. Bricks, mortar, and panels can wear out over time. Cracks here can spread damage you can’t see.